An Incredible Start to the New Year

It has been an incredible start to 2026.

ICYMI: On Wednesday, February 18, Governor Kathy Hochul spent nearly three hours in New Rochelle touring Stella Phase I and II (affordable condos), visiting a local daycare center (Little Bumblebees), and announcing $16 million in State funding to advance the LINC Project.

This investment fills a critical funding gap that threatened to derail the project after the Trump administration rescinded previously awarded funds.

I am so proud to represent our city and humbled to have spent meaningful time with the Governor (yes, we even shared a cup of coffee). The LINC is a project near and dear to my heart. It is one that will right the wrongs of the past and leave a lasting impact on our community for generations to come. I am deeply grateful that my advocacy resulted in both attention and tangible investment in our mighty city. Learn more about the visit here.

Mayor Yadira Representing New Rochelle

It has also been a busy few weeks beyond City Hall:

• Found NY: Tuesday Routines with Madam Mayor – A fun behind-the-scenes look at what a typical Tuesday looks like for me.

• NewDEAL Leaders: Building a City Where Growth Is Shared – An op-ed highlighting the New Rochelle Model and how we are ensuring growth benefits everyone.

• An Honorable Profession Podcast: How to Make Your Younger Self Proud – As part of a NewDEAL Leaders series, I reflected on my journey to leadership — and yes, I got emotional when asked what my 16-year-old self would say knowing I became Mayor of New Rochelle.

• Westchester County Executive Presser – I was thrilled to join our County Executive in January to provide updates about the exciting work happening in our city.

  
  

New York State Black and Puerto Rican Legislative Caucus – I was honored to serve on a panel alongside fellow New York mayors discussing municipal leadership in a turbulent America. The panel was moderated by NYS Attorney General Letitia James and Assemblymember Cunningham.

City Council Highlights: Strong Start to 2026

Thank You, DPW

I want to begin with gratitude for our DPW team and contractors who rose to the challenge despite two major storms and relentless frigid temperatures. Over the last several weeks, I have personally seen them out on our streets hacking away at ice to widen roadways and keep residents safe.

The cold has not been a friend to our efforts, but our crews have demonstrated the professionalism and dedication we rely on from our essential workers.

If you see one of our crews, please say thank you.

If there is a street that needs attention, please email me here.

2026 Work Plan: The Budget in Action

The City Manager unveiled the 2026 Work Plan. This is what I like to call the budget in action.

Highlights include:

• Continued park upgrades

• Expanded stormwater mitigation

• Solar array installation at the train station

• Ongoing infrastructure investments across our neighborhoods

  
  

Take a look at the accompanying presentation deck.

Cannabis Excise Tax Trust Account

The City Council authorized dedicating 20% of all prior and future cannabis excise tax revenues to initiatives focused on:

• Public health

• Youth development

• Education

• Community revitalization

• Our THRIVE Grant Program for local nonprofits

  
  

This ensures these dollars are intentionally reinvested back into strengthening our community.

Downtown Overlay Zone Amendment

Building on a decade of ambitious downtown development, the City Council is reviewing proposed refinements to the Downtown Overlay Zone code.

These updates would allow for the creation of “missing middle” housing (think townhomes, brownstones, and condos) expanding housing options for working families and young professionals.

Take a look at the presentation to learn more.

Local Safety Action Plan (LSAP)

The City of New Rochelle is launching a Local Safety Action Plan, a citywide effort to reduce serious traffic injuries and make our streets safer for everyone, including:

• Children walking to school

• Seniors crossing the street

• Residents traveling by foot, bike, transit, or car

Learn how you can participate.

Participatory Budgeting

We are currently on track to become the first municipality in Westchester County to launch participatory budgeting.

This innovative initiative will allow residents to vote on a portion of the City’s Capital Budget. The City Council has authorized the creation of a steering committee to establish the rules and process.

Stay tuned!  Civic engagement is about to reach a new level in New Rochelle.

Coffee with the Mayor: Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Our Coffee with the Mayor series continues! These informal gatherings are a wonderful opportunity to connect with City and regional leadership, ask questions, and share what is on your mind.

Upcoming Dates & Locations:

• February 28 | 10–11am | Iona University (Spellman Hall, Burke Lounge)

• March 22 | 10–11am | North End Grill

  
  

Stop by, say hello, and let’s keep the conversation going.

New Businesses

Tennis Innovators Academy New Rochelle

55 Quaker Ridge Rd, New Rochelle, NY 10804

An impressive 8,000 sq. ft. clubhouse featuring eight indoor hard courts and an on-site fitness center managed by New Rochelle’s own North End Fitness. I had the chance to hit a few volleys myself — and the facilities are truly exquisite.

Family Services of Westchester – Head Start Program

17 Anderson Street, New Rochelle, NY 10801

I was thrilled to spend time with some of our youngest residents at this beautiful and intentional new childcare facility. It is giving our youngest (and cutest!) neighbors a wonderful head start on their academic journeys and while supporting working families across our city.